Today on BRStv, we have another episode of BRS 52 FAQ where we answer all of your frequently asked reefing questions from our popular 52 Weeks of Reefing series. Today we're answering Kyle Archers's question “I live right by the ocean is their any reason not to just use the natural sea water for a reef tank?" The simple answer is yes, you can use water right out of the ocean for a saltwater aquarium. It is actually fairly common for large public aquariums and research facilities to use water directly from the ocean. There are a few reason why reefers do not use ocean water since it can be difficult to locate a clean source, since beaches, harbors, and bays usually have a fair amount of pollution from cars, boats, farms, industrial waste and other sources that may not be desirable for a reef tank. Most of the time the cleanest water will be found far offshore and would require a fair amount of time and planning to collect the water ultimately making it easier just to purchase the dry salt and mixing it yourself. One of the best ways to know if the ocean water in your area can be used, just check out the marine life and if there is an abundance of fish and coral, then the water is probably safe to use. You can always take a sample to test at home or have sent out to a larger test facility if you are still unsure. *Legal Stuff* The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the products and their applications as presented in the video. Aquatic sales solutions, inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents disclaim all express or implied warranties, in any way, related to the products and their application as presented in this video, make no representation or warranty regarding the products and the application as presented in this video and shall not be liable for any direct or indirect losses or damages of any type, including but not limited to punitive damages, or from personal injury or death resulting from or in any manner related to the video, and the products in and contents of the video. The viewer expressly agrees that aquatic sales solutions, inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products in and content of the video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages.